Who is an orthodontist

A specialist orthodontist must first qualify as a dentist, and then undertakes a three year, full-time post-graduate study in orthodontics. All orthodontists are dentists but about 3% of dentists in the UK are qualified as specialist orthodontists.

In detail

An orthodontist must first complete a 5 year dental undergraduate programme at a university dental school. After a few years of clinical practice and acquiring higher qualifications (F.D.S. or M.F.D.S.) they apply to attend a three year full time orthodontic specialist training programme, which leads to the M.Orth.RCS. qualification. This qualification entitles them to be included on the General Dental Council’s orthodontic specialist list. A research project is also undertaken, leading to a MSc or M.Phil.(Orth) qualification. Once qualified, orthodontists keep up-to-date with the latest techniques by attending regular courses and conferences as part of their Continuing Professional Development.

All orthodontists are dentists but only about 3% of dentists in the UK are qualified as specialist orthodontists.